The Audi range is one of the most comprehensive around. There are hundreds of possible models, body style, engine and trim level permutations to choose from – so knowing how to navigate the range can help it seem less baffling.

Let’s start with the naming convention. Traditional ‘car’ model names are prefixed with ‘A’, SUVs with ‘Q’, and high-performance cars with ‘R’. And the larger the number that follows it, the larger the car. The exception that makes the rule is the iconic TT.

In addition, Audi also offers sporting versions of every model in its range. These are marked out by the letter ’S’ (so S1, S3, and so on…) and, in turn, ‘RS’ for the very sportiest.

But which is the right one for you and your lifestyle? We’re here to help.

Sportback

Sportback is a name unique to Audi, and is given to more practical models – five-door versions of the A1 and A3 hatchback, and four-door Coupés: the A5 and A7.

The A1 and A3 Sportbacks have the added practicality of an extra set of doors, in a compact hatchback body style. They’re brilliantly suited to growing families who need flexibility and

The A5 and A7 Sportbacks blend slinky, sporty Coupé looks with an extra set of doors. They’re a brilliant halfway house for those who crave sportiness but regularly drive with children or teenagers in the car.

SUV

SUVs are enormously popular; inspired by traditional off-roaders, combing chunky styling with raised ride height, (potential) off-road ability, and a spacious interior. They’re extremely fashionable and popular with families, because they offer the practicality and space of an MPV in a much more rugged package.

The Q7 is the largest Audi SUV currently on sale, offering up to seven seats and true off-road ability – although all Audi SUVs are more focused toward on-road ability.

Cabriolet

Put simply, these are ‘soft-topped’ convertible versions of other models. If you want wind-in-the-hair thrills. They’re less practical, though, as the folding roofs rob space from the rear seats and boot.

As you can see, there are gaps in the alphanumeric naming system at the moment; there is no A2, nor a Q4 or Q6 on sale. Will that change in the future? Watch this space…

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